Souped-up cycles, Sir Elton, cinematic shorts, and a scintillating crooner fill Vegas Unfiltered’s week in Sin City…
Last week, we wrapped up our Vegas Unfiltered PhotoDump RoundUp with the debut of QUEEN SELENA. This time, we start with the premiere of SIR ELTON, a tribute to the one…the only…the great Elton John.
SIR ELTON debuts at Ahern Showroom
You might describe SIR ELTON as the elegant side of the famed pianist. While Kyle Martin’s PIANO MAN goes full-on parody with swishy body language and gay jokes, SIR ELTON leaves the camp to his stage mates. Singer Annie C. Lyon appears as a sixties go-go girl, while drummer Bobby Taylor channels Ringo Star (?). I’m not sure I get the vibe, but the songs and performances speak for themselves.
Jeff Burkett plays the eponymous star, demonstrating wonderful piano skills and a passion for the role. And just like any maturing superstar, Burkett’s “Elton” frequently takes the low octave in spots where a higher register was once easily reached. Points for authenticity!
MOTOWN BRUNCH performance space
SIR ELTON plays Sunday through Tuesday at 9 pm in The Showroom at Ahern Boutique Hotel. Tickets start at $44.95 and can be ordered here. Ahern Boutique Hotel offers an array of entertainment, including Motown Brunch and Adam London’s LAUGHTERNOON. It is located at 300 W. Sahara Avenue, next to the world-famous Golden Steer Steakhouse. Parking is free.
Photo courtesy of Ahern Hotel
Eye Candy at AHERN HOTEL
While we’re discussing the quiet, colorful little Ahern Boutique Hotel and Event Center, it’s worth a visit to enjoy some of the visual flourishes. Most noteworthy is a collection of stunning one-of-a-kind motorcycles. They are currently displayed throughout the Event Center’s second level.
For more eye candy, stroll over to the Ahern Chocolate Shop. Our visit occurred after hours, so no temptations overcame us. Stop by between 6 am and 8 pm at the adjacent Aroma Barista Bar to make a purchase. You can also order custom creations via this online form.
Next door is the new(ish) David Uhl Gallery. Also closed during our visit, it looked quite intriguing through the glass. The Gallery held a Grand Opening on April 26th and operates daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
David Uhl, founder of Uhl Studios, is known for his rich oil paintings capturing the spirit of motorcycling, aviation, automotive, and western culture. In 1998, he became Harley-Davidson’s first licensed oil painter, reviving historic imagery with a timeless, emotive style. David is also putting his touch on aviation, automotive, and western themes.
MOVIE CLUB LV Short Film Showdown – June Edition
It’s a fundraiser. A short film competition. A networking event for filmmakers and movie fans. It’s the MOVIE CLUB LV Short Film Showdown. Creator and host Joey Charafi (VEGAS TRAFFIC) invited me back to judge the second edition last week.
Although still in its early stages, the event was incredibly exciting. Each edition will benefit a different charity. Here’s what Mr. Charafi had to say about the event:
Director Nyle Odom discusses his film NERI’S BOX: A Lucid Tale
Judge Charles Andrulis of Picture Perfect Video
Of the five films screened, CHAT NOIR was the clear winner for both the audience and judges. The entire event is available to watch below. Follow Joey Charafi on Facebook here for information on upcoming competitions.
ANTHONY NUNZIATA at Italian American Club
It’s a thrilling feeling when you attend a performance, knowing that its star is headed to the top. Anthony Nunziata is one such talent. Not quite a household name yet, the native New Yorker has the looks, vocal skills, sincerity, and charisma to achieve superstardom. It’s only a matter of time.
Anthony’s concert was tailor-made for the mostly Italian crowd. Nunziata delighted the audience with songs that he (and they) grew up on. One special attendee was singer Roberta Linn (The Lawrence Welk Show, CAN CAN, Bob Hope), whose career dates back to the early days of NBC. Anthony gave Ms. Linn a special introduction:
Nunziata with guests Maggi Albisani (left) and Brenda Weems
Anthony Nunziata promised to return to Sin City very soon. He may also have let slip that his music will be out on vinyl by the end of the year. Keep up-to-date on Anthony’s appearances and recordings by visiting the official Anthony Nunziata website here.
